Dubai: MBR Charitable Establishment pledges Dh20 million to Edge of Life campaign
Donation strengthens global push to tackle child malnutrition
DUBAI – The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable Establishment has pledged Dh20 million to the Edge of Life campaign, reinforcing the UAE’s expanding humanitarian drive to combat childhood hunger worldwide.
The contribution was made under the directives of Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The initiative aims to help rescue five million children threatened by hunger and malnutrition.
Launched during the holy month of Ramadan by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the campaign seeks to raise at least Dh1 billion. Funds will be invested in programmes designed to address one of the most pressing global humanitarian challenges.
Edge of Life
Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the Edge of Life campaign reflects the humanitarian philosophy of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He noted that the initiative embodies directives to launch impactful programmes that extend support to underprivileged communities and ensure children have access to essential nutrition.
He added that the campaign reinforces values deeply rooted in the UAE’s national identity, emphasising that giving and spreading kindness remain central pillars of the country’s humanitarian approach. According to Sheikh Ahmed, the Ramadan initiative represents a significant step forward in coordinated international efforts to combat childhood hunger through structured institutional partnerships.
Sustainable giving
Abdulla Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable Establishment, described the campaign as a reflection of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s vision for promoting sustainable philanthropy.
Al Basti said the Establishment’s Dh20 million contribution underscores its continued support for Ramadan humanitarian initiatives. He stressed that tackling childhood hunger remains an urgent global priority requiring intensified cooperation.
He expressed hope that the contribution would help ease the suffering of vulnerable children and protect them from hunger and acute malnutrition. The Establishment has historically played a central role in major UAE food aid drives, including the 10 Million Meals, 100 Million Meals, One Billion Meals and 1 Billion Meals Endowment campaigns, alongside the Mothers’ Endowment and Fathers’ Endowment initiatives launched in 2024 and 2025.
Global partnerships
The Edge of Life campaign is being implemented in partnership with UNICEF, Save the Children, the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation and Action Against Hunger. The collaboration brings together leading international organisations to strengthen delivery mechanisms and expand the campaign’s reach.
Childhood hunger continues to pose one of the most severe threats to vulnerable populations worldwide. According to campaign figures, five children under the age of five die every minute due to malnutrition and hunger, highlighting the urgency of coordinated global action.
The initiative places special emphasis on reaching children in the world’s most fragile communities, where food insecurity undermines healthy development and long-term stability.
How to donate
The campaign continues to accept contributions from individuals and institutions through seven primary channels. Donations can be made via the official website, through the toll-free call centre at 800 4999, or by bank transfer in UAE dirhams to the campaign account at Emirates Islamic Bank (IBAN: AE940340003708472909222).
SMS donations are also available by sending the word “LIFE” to du and e& numbers: 1034 for Dh10, 1035 for Dh50, 1036 for Dh100 and 1038 for Dh500. Additional contribution options include the DubaiNow app, YallaGive.com under the Donations tab, and Dubai’s community contributions platform Jood.